Omega 3 Side Effects

Let's face it, almost any substance, even good ones that are vital to our health can be dangerous if consumed without investigating precautions and possible side effects, including omega 3.

The fact of the matter is that when it comes to omega 3 side effects and precautions, it really depends on the source of the supplement. Today, the most popular omega 3 supplements come from either fish oil, flaxseed oil, or cod liver oil so we will discuss them separately.

Omega 3 Side Effects

Fish Oil Side Effects and Precautions

The possible fish oil omega 3 side effects are relatively minor when compared to the health benefits of this dietary supplement.

It appears that fish oil harbors possible side effects such as belching, nausea, diarrhea, bloating, and intestinal gas. It is possible that these reactions is a result of poor quality in the supplement manufacturing and, as such, try switching brands if you suspect this is the cause. In addition, in some cases these reactions can be minimized by starting out with a low dose and gradually increasing it to the recommended dosage and taking it with meals.

Very high doses may cause some not so desirable fish oil omega 3 side effects such as a fishy body odor and/or "fish breath," including burping a "fishy" smell.

In some people, fish oil supplementation has been reported to increase cholesterol LDL levels. However, others have reported that taking garlic supplements can counteract this effect.

If you have diabetes, it is recommended that you don't take fish oil supplements unless your physician recommends it. Some studies indicate that taking large amounts of fish oil may make it more difficult to control blood sugar levels.

Since fish oil may have a blood-thinning effect, it is recommended that anyone taking anticoagulant medications (blood thinning medications) such as Coumadin or taking any over-the-counter blood thinners such as aspirin, consult with a physician before taking any supplements. In addition, anyone who has a bleeding disorder should consult their physician.

There is a possibility that very high doses could excessively thin the blood and cause bleeding.

Anyone who suffers from a cardiovascular condition should speak to a physician before taking fish oil supplements.

Also, be sure that the product selected is fish oil, and not fish oil liver.

Why?

Because fish oil liver contains two fat soluble vitamins A and D, which if taken in excessive amounts can cause toxicity and dangerous side effects.

It's important to note that you should only select fish oil supplements from reputable companies to avoid the risk of capsules containing rancid oil. To check this, we recommend that you cut open the end of the capsule and if it is rancid you can easily smell a strong odor.

It's also crucial to make sure the product you select was tested for contaminates such as heavy metals. As such, we recommend that you read our pharmaceutical grade fish oil webpage, which will provide you with information on how to buy a quality fish oil supplement. Pharmaceutical Grade Fish Oil.

Fish oil is easily damaged by oxygen, so a few milligrams or IUs of vitamin E should be included in all fish oil supplements.

Lastly, it's important to consult a physician before taking any dietary supplements, especially anyone on prescription medications, pregnant or nursing, or have a health condition to avoid other possible dangers.

Omega 3 Side Effects

Cod Liver Oil Side Effects and Precautions

Most of the side effects and precautions for fish oil also pertain to cod liver oil with a few exceptions.

Cod liver oil contains both vitamin A and D. As we mentioned earlier, consuming excessive amounts of these two vitamins can cause toxicity and dangerous side effects.

Moreover, certain medications, as well as mineral oil may also interfere with the absorption of vitamin A.

In addition, using vitamin A at higher dosages in conjunction with synthetic vitamin A derivatives can result in an increased risk of toxicity. As such, we believe given all these challenges that a better source of omega 3s is fish oil.

If you suffer from diabetes or a cardiovascular condition, consult a physician before taking any cod liver oil supplements.

People taking blood thinning medications such as Coumadin or over-the-counter blood thinners such as aspirin, should consult with a physician before taking any supplements.

It's also crucial to make sure the product you select was tested for contaminates such as heavy metals.

Lastly, it's important to consult a physician before taking any dietary supplements, especially anyone on prescription medications, pregnant or nursing, or have a health condition to avoid other possible dangers.

Omega 3 Side Effects

Flaxseed Oil Side Effects and Precautions

Flaxseed oil appears to be safe with very few omega 3 side effects. However, as with all dietary supplements, it's important to consult a physician before taking any flaxseed oil supplements, especially if you're on prescription medications, pregnant or nursing, or have a health condition.

Flaxseed oil may cause mild gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea.

Flaxseed oil or ground flaxseed should not be used if you have a bowel obstruction of any kind.

Due to the potential for side effects and interactions with medications, flaxseed oil supplements should only be taken only under the supervision of physician or other knowledgeable healthcare provider.

People who suffer from gallbladder problems may experience trouble digesting flax seed oil, which can be resolved if you start with very small amounts (1 teaspoon) and build up the dosage of flax seed oil over time.

Beyond Omega 3 Side Effects

Our Recommendation on the Best Omega 3 Source

We here at Nutritional-Supplement-Educational Centre believe that fish oil is the best source for an omega 3 supplement.

Why?

Recent evidence indicates that fish oil may be a better source for the Omega-3 fatty acids.

If you're interested in learning more about these three omega 3 sources and as to why our number one choice is fish oil, please take a moment to read our omega 3 pill supplement webpage. Omega 3 Pill Supplements.